Edited by: Sr. Caroline Protasevych, SC
The month of February marks a special time of remembrance for us as we come upon the one-year anniversary of the passing of our beloved foundress, Sr. Anna Chan. One of the many ways she touched the hearts of others was through the talks she gave, always delivered with the Father’s love and heart.
Written below is an excerpt from the last talk she gave at a Fresh Fire Ministry event in Ottawa in October of 2024. Although some edits have been made to make the content suitable for personal reflection, we pray that you will experience a new or deeper encounter of love through Sr. Anna’s sharing of Having the Father’s Heart. Enjoy her writing and voice below.
When I was younger, on every birthday growing up, my Dad would remind me of how he would raise me high on the palm of his hand and balance me, standing, on the palm of his hand. I could tell he enjoyed sharing this story with me every birthday. It was always shared with giggles because he knew that I would look at him, shaking my head. Gone are the days, but what that made me feel was that I was his delight. I was his happy thought. I was his pride, joy, and I was his princess.
I remember often how my Dad and I would giggle over the littlest of moments. For example, he would playfully tip me over and sing “I’m a little teapot.” He was so playful with me, even in my 20s and 30s. I’m happy to report that we don’t play this game anymore at the risk of a hip replacement. Mercy right?…
Here is one not-so-fond moment: playing tennis. It felt more like tennis boot camp. I was so embarrassed. I was the enjoyment of other teenagers looking on, just because we would rally back and forth and then the way we would pick all the balls was by trading sides (because they were all on my side!) He wanted me to excel, persevere, and grow.
Now, talking about gruelling memories: elementary school. English class. When it came to comprehension and understanding things like poetry, or the symbolism of a fantasy or science fiction book was super hard for me, and at times I couldn’t keep up. My dad saw how hard it was for me, and he would sit there, be present, and try to help by answering the questions himself. It was really difficult for me, but it was his presence that assured me. It was him just being there, still and peaceful, that grounded me.
I have plenty of these little stories of my Dad and I which shaped my relationship with God the Father today. God the Father, as I understand in my heart, is faithful and fun-loving. He delights in me, sees me as the apple of his eye, who roots for me, wants me to excel, persevere, and grow. One who really offers his presence, just like my earthly father, but MORE. He has rooted me in knowing that I am enough. That I am lovable, I am worthy, I am kind. That I am a princess, his beloved daughter. That I am adored. I am a delight. That I am in his mind, thought, and heart.
Perhaps for some of us here, we didn’t have the same experience… Maybe we had fathers who were absent, neglectful, or didn’t know how to be present. Or fathers who were abusive. Fathers who acted like a commander, who weren’t warm and tender-hearted… But we do have a good good Papa in heaven who sees us and loves us very much, who definitely wants to heal, and fill the gaps of our hearts where our earthly fathers fell short and more.
Our Papa in heaven wants in; in our hearts, to show us and to heal us in those areas that need his tenderness and care. One way that we can begin to experience his touch, his tenderness and care is through scripture. When we read scripture in view of deepening a personal relationship with God, it can be very healing. When we read scripture, outside of building a relationship with God it can hurt our faith. The Pharisees fell victim to this.
So, I invite you right now to listen with faith in your heart…Take a deep breath as if he is building new life in you. Take a step and surrender to receive from the Father, to seal any cracks in the foundation of your heart. Restoring, renewing that deep personal and intimate love he has for each of us. Whether it is the first time you are hearing how much God the Father loves you, or need a renewed understanding of his love for you, come into a place of receiving. Come into a place of rest. There is nothing for us to do here, just receive his love through his words from Isaiah 43:1-4:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, your Saviour…You are precious in my eyes, and honoured, and I love you.”
And again, in John 16:27, Jesus says:
“For the Father himself loves you.”
Let his words speak truth into your heart right now. Holy Spirit come, breathe truth, healing and love.
We thank you, Father, for the gift of Sr. Anna’s talk from Fresh Fire. We give you permission today to draw us close to your heart. Show us anew your tender love for us. Amen.
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